DON’T MISS THIS FANTASTIC OPPORTUNITY TO BE PART OF THIS UNIQUE EXPERIENCE. SEE YOU IN THE WATER!
The Balaton Cross-Swim is not just a sporting event but a once-in-a-lifetime experience! If you love water, excitement, and challenges, this is the place for you. Dive into Hungary’s largest lake and experience the magic of Lake Balaton!
26.06.2025
About the Balaton Cross-swim.
The 5.2 km Balaton Cross-Swim, a tradition since 1983, is an annual summer sporting event held on the first Saturday of July (until 2010, it was scheduled for the last Saturday of the month). In case of unfavourable weather, the event is postponed. Participants take on the challenge of swimming the 5.2 km stretch between Révfülöp and Balatonboglár on Lake Balaton. Competitors complete the distance between the two shores in an average of three hours, with the fastest swimmers finishing in about one hour.
The Course of the Event
The starting point of the cross-swim is the football field located directly by the lakeside next to the Révfülöp harbour, while the finish point is the Platán Beach in Balatonboglár. Competitors are provided with a radio-frequency wristband, which is used for timekeeping. The starting period usually runs from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Participants must have a medical fitness certificate. This can be completed by a general practitioner on the printed registration form following online registration, but on-site medical examinations are also available at the event.
During the race, 150–180 sailboats ensure the safety of the route, along with three medical boats. Bags and participants are transported between the two shores by boats.
The results of the swimmers can be viewed online by interested parties at the website balatonatuszas.futanet.hu.
Don’t forget to book your accommodation as soon as possible, as hotels and lodgings may already be fully booked by March for the event.
FAQ about the Balaton Cross-Swim
- Who can participate in the Balaton Cross-Swim?
Anyone who is physically fit and at least 12 years old can participate, provided they have a valid medical certificate. - How do I register for the event?
You can register online through the official website or on-site on the day of the event, depending on availability. - Is a medical certificate required?
Yes, participants must present a medical fitness certificate, which can be obtained in advance or during an on-site medical examination. - What is the distance of the swim?
The swim covers a distance of 5.2 km between Révfülöp and Balatonboglár. - What safety measures are in place during the event?
The route is monitored by 150–180 sailboats, and three medical boats are on standby for emergencies. - How is timing recorded?
Participants receive a radio-frequency wristband, which tracks their start and finish times. - What happens if the weather is unfavourable?
In the case of bad weather, the event is postponed to a later date, which will be announced by the organisers. - Can I transport my belongings across the lake?
Yes, organisers provide boats to transport participants’ bags between Révfülöp and Balatonboglár. - What time does the event start?
The starting period typically runs from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., allowing participants to start within this timeframe. - Where can I check the results?
The results are published online at balatonatuszas.futanet.hu shortly after the event. - Can I wear a wetsuit during the swim?
Yes, wetsuits are allowed, but participants must ensure they meet the event’s regulations. - Is there an age limit for participation?
The minimum age is 12 years, but there is no upper age limit as long as participants are medically fit. - Can I participate if I’m not a professional swimmer?
Absolutely! The event welcomes both amateur and professional swimmers, as long as they are comfortable with the distance. - What is the registration fee?
The fee varies each year. Details can be found on the official website during the registration period. - Are there water stations along the route?
Yes, there are designated boats along the route providing water and refreshments. - How can I get to Révfülöp or Balatonboglár?
Both locations are accessible by car, train, or bus, with additional shuttle services often organised for the event. - What if I cannot complete the swim?
Safety boats are available along the route to assist participants who cannot continue. - Can spectators watch the event?
Yes, spectators are welcome at both Révfülöp and Balatonboglár, and viewing spots are set up along the shores. - Is there a time limit for completing the swim?
Participants are generally required to finish by the early afternoon, depending on the weather and safety regulations. - Can I get a refund if I can’t participate?
Refund policies are outlined in the event’s terms and conditions on the official website. - What happens if medical assistance is needed?
The medical boats and rescue teams continuously monitor the event, so participants will receive immediate assistance if necessary. The event is very safe, and participants can abandon the swim at any time.
